Congo opposition calls for mediation on elections

KINSHASA, Congo – Congo's main opposition parties have renewed calls for the international community and the United Nations to take a more active role in bringing about an inclusive dialogue on elections that have raised tensions in the central African country.

Etienne Tshisekedi, leader of the largest opposition party, called on supporters to demonstrate Oct. 19 if progress isn't made toward fair elections scheduled for November that will likely be delayed.

Dozens died weeks ago in Kinshasa after security forces clashed with anti-government demonstrators opposed to a vote delay.

Opposition parties also called for a restructured electoral commission and Constitutional Court, saying they are partisan to President Joseph Kabila, who they say is delaying the vote to hold onto power.

Since independence from Belgium in 1960, Congo hasn't had a peaceful, democratic transition of power.